Council collects least in parking revenue

OLDHAM Council raked in £224,000 in parking charges and fines last year — the least of Greater Manchester’s 10 authorities.

Figures analysed by the RAC Foundation showed councils had a surplus of £565 million from their on and off street parking operations — £54 million up on the year before.

In 2010, Oldham made £37,000, compared to £295,000 in 2011.

Councillor Shoab Akhtar, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for business and town centres, said: “As a council we bring in the lowest revenue compared to all the Greater Manchester authorities.

“Parking revenue is spent on parking services and we have to subsidise these as the cost is not covered by charges.

“In recent years the council has worked with businesses to encourage shoppers into Oldham town centre with various experimental free parking offers.

“The feedback has been very positive with increased numbers of people coming into Oldham and it clearly shows the flexibility we offer for motorists in our borough.”